Rhododendron viscosum (swamp azalea)

Swamp azalea is one of the last azaleas to bloom in the spring, not opening its flowers until the leaves are fully expanded. Then fragrant, clove-scented tubular, white to pale pink flowers emerge somewhere between May and July. It is a loose, upright-spreading, deciduous woody shrub that typically grows to 3–5' tall. Best grown in acidic, humusy, well-drained loams in part shade. This species of azalea is tolerant of moist to wet soils, including ones with somewhat poor drainage. It also tolerates periodic flooding, but will not grow in soils where the roots are submerged in water. Has been given the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. Note that while the flowers are beneficial to certain wildlife, all rhododendrons contain toxic substances and should not be consumed by humans or animals. 

Swamp azalea is native to the eastern U.S. It is a typical wetland shrub, common along the coastal plain from southern New Jersey to South Carolina. Attracts bees, butterflies, and birds. 

BONAP Native Range Map (bright green indicates county native, dark green indicates state native)  

**Note: You will be asked upon checkout to create an account. This is optional and is not required to process payment or to register.**